This Saturday 22nd February 2025.....the second DCGS of 2025 is here, with pt. 2 of a 2 part feature presented on dublab.com @ 10am US PST.

We're focusing on the brand new compilation drop by Honest Jon's;

LIFE IN HEAVEN IS FREE
Checker Gospel 1961-1973

Compiled by Greg Belson & David Hill, with sleeve notes written by Grammy Award nominated Robert Marovich, it's the first legally licensed examination of this amazing label.

Pt. 2 features tracks for The Later Years - 1967 thru 1973, with music provided by mainstays of the Chicago Gospel scene and beyond.

The comp is available on limited double LP gatefold vinyl only - no CD, no digital or promo 45’s, so grab a copy whilst stock lasts.

https://www.discogs.com/release/32394075-Various-Life-in-Heaven-is-Free-Checker-Gospel-1961-1973

“A shoo-in for soul compilation of the year.”?? Judge for yourself and tune in for a deeper dive into the catalog.

Essential Digs Gettin' Dug!

 

Edited February 24Feb 24 by Greg Belson

Divine Chord Gospel Show pt. 161 – Checker Gospel LP’s Label Feature Focus pt. 2 – 1967 - 1973 broadcast on 22nd February 2025 presented by DJ GREG BELSON
 

East St. Louis Gospelettes – Soon I Will Be Done (Checker)
Power & Light Choral Ensemble – America (Checker)
The Soul Stirrers – Peter, Don’t Be Afraid (Checker)
Salem Travelers – I Love My Jesus (Checker)
Ben Branch & the Operation Breadbasket Orchestra & Choir – Motherless Child (Checker)
Gospel Six – Have You Ever Wondered (Checker)
The Salem Travelers – Wade In The Water (Checker)
The Soul Stirrers – If I Were A Bird (Checker)
Soulful Salem Travelers – Walk In The Sunshine (Checker)
The Violinaires – The Whole World Is Watching (Checker)
The Salem Travelers – Ain’t That Moving (Checker)
The Williams Singers – I’m Sorry (Checker)
The Jordan Singers – All My Sins Been Taken Away (Checker)
Harmonizing Four of Richmond, Virginia – The Harvest Is Past (Checker)
Jordan Singers – Each Day Brings About A Change (Checker)
The Williams Singers – In And Out Of Trouble (Checker)
William Singers – Don’t Give Up (Checker)
The Violinaires – Groovin’ With Jesus (Checker)
Drinkard Ensemble – Wade In The Water (Checker)
Soul Stirrers – Striving (Checker)
East St. Louis Gospelettes – God And Me (Checker)
The East St. Louis Gospelettes – Sunshine In My Heart (Checker)
Meditation Singers – What The World Needs For Christmas (Checker)
Gene Viale – How Sweet It Is (Checker)
Soul Stirrers – Must Jesus Have The Cross (Checker)
The Jordan Singers – Must Jesus Have The Cross (Checker)
The William Singers – So Good To Be Alive (Checker)
The Soulful Salem Travelers – Samson And Delilah (Checker)
The Soul Stirrers – Don’t You Worry (Checker)
The Salem Travelers – Tell It Like It Is (Checker)
Gospel Six – Blow Wind Blow (Checker)
Soul Stirrers – Jesus Is The One (Checker)
The Harmonizing Four – There’s Room At The Cross (Checker)
Martha Bass – How I Got Over (Checker)
Harold Smith Majestic Singers – Put A Little Love In Your Heart (Checker)
Gospel Six – I Don’t Mind (Checker)
Martha Bass – Move Up A Little Higher (Checker)
Aretha Franklin – While The Blood Runs Warm (Checker)